An April Maine Department of Health and Human Services inspection of Pioneer Motel in Edgecomb identified three critical and 11 non-critical violations of Maine Rules Relating to Lodging Establishments. The alleged violations included rodent infestation, lack of adequate cleaning, no commercial laundry facility, improper linen storage, missing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, improper extension cord use, no material safety data sheets for on-site chemicals in use, loose and rotten handrails, and equipment and facilities needing maintenance, repair, or replacement. 

Following the report, Pioneer Motel surrendered its licensing resulting in a reclassification. The business is no longer a motel, under state supervision. The new classification is rental rooms, under municipal supervision. On July 9, Edgecomb medical officer Dr. Kathryn Rohr discussed the town’s next steps with selectmen. Rohr reported she and Code Enforcement Officer Phil Haas would inspect Pioneer Motel, located at 400 U.S. Route One. 

“We need to give them notice that we are coming on a certain date, or for them to give us a date. This gives them the opportunity to move forward on their repairs,” said Rohr.

In other action, selectmen held a 65-minute executive session with Fire Chief Roy Potter prior to the meeting. The town recently moved from a part-time to full-time fire chief. Earlier this month, residents approved a $62,400 annual salary with no benefits for the new position. But Potter’s full salary won’t begin until July 23, the new position’s starting date. Potter will receive a “hybrid-salary” between July 1 and July 23. Selectmen and Potter negotiated an in-between salary based on the previous part-time fire chief’s $13,300 stipend and new $62,400 salary. Until July 23, Potter will receive $1,000 per week, according to the selectboard.

Selectmen made a decision on the new code enforcement officer and licensed plumbing inspector. Phil Haas was recently appointed following George Chase’s resignation in connection with his election as selectman. Haas can serve as CEO while matriculating through the certification process. He has one year to complete his coursework. The same exemption doesn’t apply for Maine licensed plumbing inspectors. Haas can’t take that position until he completes his certification.  Selectmen appointed Chase to serve as an interim LPI until Haas is certified. 

Selectmen approved $3,000 to purchase and install a new electrical panel for the town hall. Selectmen contracted with McCain Electric to purchase and install the panel.

Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 23 in the municipal building.